Owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD with the 2.8L Duramax diesel get around 19 MPG combined. This truck isn’t a fuel sipper. However, for off-roaders and overlanders who want reliable capability, a torquey diesel engine, and factory-installed performance suspension over high fuel efficiency, this number is acceptable. ZR2 buyers aren’t comparing it to a Prius. They’re looking for a truck that can tackle tough terrain and look good doing it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Colorado ZR2 4WD 2.8L diesel at 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds, conditions that affect larger, heavier vehicles. The highway figure is still relatively modest. The 2.8L Duramax performs best when working, and using that power uses fuel. The ZR2’s aggressive off-road tires and increased ride height create aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel efficiency at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD 2.8L diesel at $2,950. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes a national average fuel price. Diesel fuel prices change, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, location, and fuel prices. If you plan to frequently drive the ZR2 off-road, expect to visit the gas station more often and potentially exceed this annual estimate. Diesel fuel generally costs more per gallon than regular gasoline. You can view all Chevrolet fuel economy data at FuelEconomyHub.com.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world MPG for the Colorado ZR2 2.8L diesel varies. Owners report numbers from the high teens to the low twenties, depending on driving style, terrain, and modifications. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-roading, and adding roof racks and larger tires will reduce fuel economy.

Gentle driving, maintaining consistent speeds on the highway, and keeping the truck properly maintained can help you achieve closer to the EPA estimates. A good way to estimate your expected MPG is to check owner forums and online communities for feedback from ZR2 drivers.

How it compares

The Colorado ZR2 2.8L diesel’s fuel economy is often lower than other mid-size trucks with off-road features. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro V6 typically gets around 18 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger FX4 gets around 22 MPG combined with its EcoBoost engine. The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon can reach around 19 MPG combined with its V6 engine, however the Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel gets around 24 MPG combined. The ZR2 2.8L’s diesel engine gives it strong low-end torque, for challenging off-road driving. Buyers should weigh the trade-offs between fuel efficiency and off-road capability when deciding, especially considering COLORADO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD 2.8L diesel is not a fuel economy leader, but driving habits can help you use each gallon effectively. Avoid quick acceleration and braking, watch traffic, and maintain a steady speed.

The Duramax diesel produces peak torque at lower RPMs, so you don’t need to push the engine hard to move.

Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. The ZR2’s tires can lose pressure, increasing rolling resistance and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, before long trips or off-road driving. Make sure your wheels are aligned.

Maintenance is important for good fuel economy. Keep your engine tuned, change your oil and air filter on schedule, and fix any mechanical issues. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and improve your fuel mileage.

Remove unnecessary weight from your truck. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Only carry what you need. Every pound affects fuel economy.